Malibu Sink Hole

Part of a hillside in Malibu gave way following days of heavy rain. (Published Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010)

Officials said they're seeking "expedited funding" to make emergency repairs.

The section of road was closed to all but local traffic at 4 p.m. Wednesday, according to the city Department of Transportation. K-rails were set up to keep vehicles off the pavement.

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"As a result of the recent storms, a washout, or erosion gully, developed on the northern or downslope side of Mulholland," according to a Department of Public Works statement. The washout is 35 feet wide, 10 feet deep and located about seven- tenths of a mile east of the intersection of Coldwater Canyon ... (and) has eroded fill material consisting of silty sand used when the road was constructed.".

Citing the importance of Mulholland Drive to the area's traffic flow, the DPW said it has requested expedited funding to conduct emergency road repairs. In the interim, motorists were being detoured.